Two families are seeking substantial High Court damages against Oxfordshire Health Authority over separate claims of alleged medical negligence.

Solicitors acting for local youngster, Martin Black, of Cromwell Way, Kidlington, have filed a writ in the Queen's Bench Division of the High Court, against the authority and Dr Anne Watson of Hurst Rise Road, Cumnor, claiming damages between 50,000 and 100,000 for personal injury arising out of their negligent treatment. The action, being pursued by Martin's father, Garry Black, alleges negligence by Dr Watson at the family home on or about February 1, 1992, and by the authority and its agents at the John Radcliffe Hospital between February 2 and 9 of the same year.

A severely disabled boy from Banbury is also claiming compensation in excess of 50,000 through the same court for injuries sustained through being asphyxiated during his birth ten years ago at The Horton Hospital.

His mother, Nicola Faulkner, of Horley, near Banbury, is suing the authority on his behalf, claiming it was responsible for the management of the hospital, and for the provision of medical and obstetric facilities and services. She maintains her son, Thomas, who was resuscitated after being asphyxiated for bet- ween ten and 25 minutes, suffered irreversible injury and permanent mental and physical disabilities due to the negligence of staff.

Oxfordshire Health Authority declined to comment.